Pope Francis has described the internet as a "gift from God" in a statement today (January 23) for the Catholic Church's World Communications Day.

The Argentine-born pope hailed the "unprecedented advances" in technology for facilitating communication, and its "immense possibilities" for enabling people to discover different cultures and backgrounds.

"The internet, in particular, offers immense possibilities for encounter and solidarity," the 77-year-old wrote. "This is something truly good, a gift from God."

However, Pope Francis also warned of the perils of internet-driven social media, suggesting that some can become isolated from friends and family, while those not on board were at risk of being left behind.

"While these drawbacks are real, they do not justify rejecting social media," Pope Francis continued. "Rather, they remind us that communication is ultimately a human rather than technological achievement.

"The desire for digital connectivity can have the effect of isolating us from our neighbours, from those closest to us."